For 19-year-old Ben Williams, the journey to boxing began as a means of overcoming adversity rather than seeking accolades. After enduring bullying during his time at Saraswati Primary School, he discovered the sport at the age of 14. Williams, who hails from Lau, shares that his personal struggles pushed him towards boxing, which he views not as a means for revenge, but as a source of discipline and respect.
“Boxing teaches me how to be disciplined and respect others,” he explained, highlighting the sport’s positive influence on his life. Initially, his parents were apprehensive about his new path, but Williams persevered, committed to personal growth through boxing.
As he gears up for the upcoming tri-nations amateur boxing tournament, Williams emphasizes the importance of self-improvement, stating, “I’m trying to get better than my past time because I know we have to grow and show what we have. We have the talent in Fiji, but we just need to get up with it and show them what we have.”
In a similar vein, lightweight boxing champion Mikaele Ravalaca recently appealed to young Fijians to stay away from drugs and embrace boxing instead, promoting the sport as a productive outlet that fosters discipline and a positive mindset. He emphasizes the significant role boxing can play in steering youth away from negative influences and towards healthier lifestyles.
Williams also encourages other young people to take up boxing, asserting its ability to motivate individuals and promote respectful behavior, helping to combat both physical and cyberbullying. The Tri-Nations Amateur Boxing Tournament kicks off tomorrow at the FMF Gymnasium in Suva, offering an exciting platform for young athletes to showcase their skills and embody the spirit of resilience and growth that sports can instill.
This event highlights the increasing recognition of boxing as a valuable avenue for personal development and community engagement within Fiji, reflecting a hopeful outlook for aspiring athletes and the future of the sport. Fans can catch all the action live on FBC 2.
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